FAD Stories – Stefano

Here’s another in our series of conversations with Fashion Futures grads.Vlogger Stefano, 17, from Enfield is studying for his Fashion B-Tec and is part of the Fashion Futures 2017 cohort.

How did you find the Fashion Futures workshops?

I liked so much about them. I liked that we all got the freedom to make whatever we wanted based off one really creative brief. It excited me as I don’t get many opportunities to this and being creative always excites me. I also liked that we got to work with people from industry because they all taught me things that I wouldn’t have learned before FAD. From them, I learned how to use an industrial machine, which I never used before, and I also learned how to pattern cut as well and about the business side of fashion too.

Stef getting some help pattern cutting from an industry volunteer

Did you have any particular challenges to overcome?

I think one of the main challenges is that it might take me longer to be good at certain things, it can be hard for me to get used to doing certain things sometimes, I have to do something a couple of times before being good at it. I also find it hard to socialise with people sometimes and can find it hard to break out routines. But even though I face these challenges, I think my autism is a gift in many different ways and I’m proud to say that I’m autistic.

What has been your FAD highlight to date?

I would either say the first day or the buzz of the last day. I know they’re the complete opposites but I adored both days! I also enjoyed talking to industry people who had an interest in fashion and in my work. I also loved the recent masterclass with May Martin!

What are you up to next?

I very focused now -I really want to be the fashion industry, it’s something that I’m so passionate about. In order to that, I’m going to a fashion foundation course first and applying to Working Man’s College. As well as that, I plan to continue filming Youtube videos because it’s something I love to do. I’m near to 1000 subscribers so I’m excited to finally reach that amount!

(You can watch Stefano’s videos, and help him reach 1000 subscribers here. )

What would you say to anyone thinking of applying for Fashion Futures?

I think do it. I think it’s very beneficial, and it’s a great opportunity and a fun environment to be in!

Why should people think of donating to FAD?

To help other people like me achieve their fashion dreams!

From the 28th – 5th of November any donation you make to FAD will doubled! From a £5 – £5,000!